About the Role:
The RN-Nursing Professional Development Specialist plays a critical role in enhancing the clinical competencies and professional growth of nursing staff within healthcare organizations. This position is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that support evidence-based nursing practices and improve patient care outcomes. The specialist collaborates with nursing leadership and interdisciplinary teams to identify learning needs and develop tailored development plans. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional excellence, this role ensures nursing staff remain current with regulatory requirements and advances in healthcare. Ultimately, the RN-Nursing Professional Development Specialist contributes to the overall quality and safety of patient care through strategic education and development initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Nursing Education, or a related field.
- Minimum of two years of recent clinical experience in an acute care setting.
- Evidence of interest or experience in teaching/precepting (e.g., serving as a unit preceptor or mentor).
- Current unencumbered license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Alabama.
- Demonstrated experience in nursing education, staff development, or clinical training.
- Strong knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Nursing, Nursing Education, or a related field.
- Professional Development (NPD-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is preferred.
- Certification in Nursing Professional Development (NPD) or equivalent.
- Experience with electronic learning management systems (LMS) and educational technology tools.
- Proven ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Familiarity with quality improvement processes and patient safety initiatives.
Responsibilities:
- Develop, coordinate, and deliver comprehensive nursing education programs and workshops based on identified learning needs and organizational goals.
- Assess the effectiveness of educational interventions through evaluation tools and feedback mechanisms to ensure continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with nursing leadership and clinical staff to identify professional development opportunities and support career advancement.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of nursing best practices, regulatory standards, and emerging healthcare trends to inform educational content.
- Facilitate orientation and onboarding programs for new nursing staff to ensure smooth integration and competency development.
Skills:
The RN-Nursing Professional Development Specialist utilizes strong communication and interpersonal skills daily to engage nursing staff and leadership effectively. Critical thinking and analytical skills are essential for assessing educational needs and evaluating program outcomes to ensure alignment with clinical goals. Instructional design and presentation skills are applied to create and deliver impactful learning experiences that accommodate diverse learning styles. Organizational and project management skills enable the specialist to coordinate multiple educational initiatives and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, proficiency with technology, including learning management systems and virtual training platforms, supports the efficient delivery and tracking of educational content.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Nursing Education, or a related field
- Minimum of two years of recent clinical experience in an acute care setting
- Evidence of interest or experience in teaching/precepting (e.g., unit preceptor or mentor)
- Current unencumbered license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Alabama
- Demonstrated experience in nursing education, staff development, or clinical training
- Strong knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills; presentation and instructional design skills
- Master's degree in Nursing, Nursing Education, or a related field
- Professional Development (NPD-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- Certification in Nursing Professional Development (NPD) or equivalent
- Experience with electronic learning management systems (LMS) and educational technology tools
- Proven ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Familiarity with quality improvement processes and patient safety initiatives
What We Do
At UAB Medical West, our number one priority is to offer quality, convenient care for those in West Jefferson County, AL. Currently offering emergency care, 12 health centers in your community, and a state-of-the-art hospital just off Exit 1 off of I-459, UAB Medical West is committed to being here for you and your entire family. It’s one more way we can offer quality, compassionate care near you.






